Reports of motorists ‘bullying’ road crews on State Highway 35

Gisborne District Council and Tairāwhiti Civil Defence have issued a stern, blunt warning to people bullying their road crews over access on SH35 between Pōtaka and Hicks Bay. Photo / Supplied

Officials have given a blunt message following reports of people “bullying” road crews on the heavily damaged stretch of State Highway 35 from Pōtaka to Hicks Bay.

Tairāwhiti Civil Defence and Gisborne District Council issued a joint statement via social media today.

“If it says CLOSED, it is CLOSED,” the post reads.

“The road is incredibly dangerous and unnecessary movement could cause even more damage. When it is safe to be open, you will be the first to know!”

“We’ve reports of people bullying the traffic management crews – let’s be clear on this – it is not acceptable.

“So please, be kind, be considerate, and abide by the safety measures that have been put in place so crews can reconnect our region.”

The highway stretch from Pōtaka to Hicks Bay remains closed, and is described as "incredibly dangerous". Photo / Supplied

Convoys through road extended

Crews have been working to tackle the extensive damage caused by slips and flooding along the local road network and highway in severe weather last week.

Communities along SH35 were split into several isolated pockets in the event.

Since then, NZTA road crews had re-established the washed-out section of Taurangakoau Bridge over the Mangaowira Stream, south of Te Araroa, and escorted convoys of vehicles had been moving along the section of highway from Tikitiki up to Te Araroa for set periods during the day since Monday.

That system was extended for residents and essential services on Wednesday.

SH35 was open from Gisborne through to Taurangakoau Bridge, about 3km south of Te Araroa.

The road remained closed between Pōtaka in the west and the Taurangakoau Bridge.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi incident controller Richard Bayley said offering the chance for daily convoys between Taurangakoau Bridge and Te Araroa had been a crucial lifeline for many residents and deliveries.

He said the midday convoys on Wednesday and Thursday were being extended to support the delivery of more goods through to Te Araroa.

Times were 8am to 8.30am, 11.30am to 1.30pm and 4pm to 4.30pm.

Traffic management crews have piloted vehicles to/from Te Araroa through the Taurangakoau Bridge.

“We ask people to please take extra care when travelling through this area - active tree removal worksites are in place and opening and closing times are strictly enforced,” Bayley said.

“During further on-the-ground inspections, Geotech inspectors have noted a large number of high-risk sites where slips are still moving or generally unsafe for the public.

“We can’t stress enough the importance that these convoys are kept only for residents and essential services,

“Please avoid travelling there if you don’t need to be in the area.”

Health NZ advice for cleaning up properties

Health New Zealand has issued advice to those involved in the cleanups on properties affected by the heavy rain.

“After flooding, little bits of silt, mud and soil in the air can get into your lungs and airways,” a Health NZ spokesman said.

“It can also irritate the eyes and upper airways, and for those with underlying heart or lung conditions, like asthma, it can worsen symptoms.”

The HNZ spokesman said it was a good idea to take precautions if dust levels were high and it could be seen, tasted or smelled in the air:

• Stay indoors and close windows and doors where possible.
• Try to minimise the amount of time outside and avoid vigorous exercise outside.
• Try to keep the places you sleep, eat and relax free of dust.
• Clean indoors regularly using mops and damp cloths to remove dust. Avoid sweeping and dusting as it kicks dust into the air.
• Only use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high efficiency particle air) filter. Air conditioners are safe to use, but make sure filters (HEPA are recommended) are kept clean.

“If you and your whānau do need to go outside, wear a mask (P2 or N95 masks are recommended). If you don’t have access to masks, you can also cover your nose and mouth with fabric.”

More guidance is available here https://info.health.nz/.../protecting.../floods-and-health